Review of Camping Mats

This article gives a detailed review of all the best sleeping pads and air mattresses.

It is based on 17 years’ experience and has been used by tens of thousands of people.

There is a detailed buyer’s guide, a series of comparison tables and further reading for the enthusiastic. However, if you’re in a hurry, go straight to the Top 6.

The first version of this article was published in 2014 and has been regularly updated since then. I have completely overhauled it over the last month and have thus reposted it at the top of my blog today.

Models

2. Exped DownMat HL Winter

Warmest camping mat

If you want warmth then you want an Exped DownMat.

The warmest available is the DownMat XP9. However, the DownMat HL Winter (previously: DownMat WinterLite) has almost the same insulation but at a fraction of the weight. In fact, the WinterLite has the best warmth-to-weight ratio of any camping mat.

Models:

5. Exped SynMat HyperLite

Super comfortable

Exped’s SynMat range uses a synthetic filling instead of goose/duck down. They are not quite as warm but the advantage is that it doesn’t matter if they get damp.

The HyperLite (sometimes called the Exped SynMat HL HyperLite) is slightly thicker, warmer and lighter than the excellent Thermarest NeoAir. Its only down-side is that it requires a little more effort to inflate.

Types of camping mat

a. Foam pads

Foam pads, often called ‘roll mats’, are just large rectangular pieces of closed-cell foam (CCF). You unfurl them to sleep on and roll them up to carry. They are cheap, tough and reliable bits of camping equipment. It’s hard to go wrong with a roll mat.

They are not quite as warm as the alternatives but it’s their pack size that really lets them down. They typically need to be strapped to the outside of a rucksack.

Foam roll mats

Weight: Low-Medium

Pack Size: Very Large

Warmth: Low – Medium

Comfort: Low

Cost: Low

Advantages

Very cheap

Indestructable

Can protect inflatable mats

Disadvantages

Massive pack size

Limited warmth

Not the most comfortable

Best foam mats

Thermarest RidgeRest

Thermarest Z-Rest

b. Self-inflating mats

The most common alternative to foam mats are self-inflating mats. These have a tough nylon outer with a thin layer of open-cell foam inside. Thiscan be inflated with a couple of breaths of air. If you leave the unfurled with the valve open for a few minutes, they should partially “self-inflate”.

They are generally warmer and more comfortable than foam mats. They are much smaller to carry too. They run the risk of puncture, however, and cost significantly more than foam mats.

The more expensive, thinner and 3/4 length models can be really light. If you buy a super thick, comfortable version then they can, of course, weigh a lot more (and I’d generally recommended getting an inflatable mat instead, see below).

Self-inflating mats

Weight: Low – Medium

Pack Size: Small

Warmth: Medium

Comfort: Medium

Cost: Medium – High

Advantages

Small pack size

Low weight

Good warmth

Disadvantages

Expensive (cheap ones don’t last)

Can puncture

Best self-inflating mats

Thermarest ProLite

Thermarest EvoLite

c. Inflatable air mattresses

Inflatable camping mats, often called ‘air mattresses’, are like airbeds or lilos: large baffled mattresses that you inflate.

They are much thicker than foam or self-inflating pads. They are by far the most comfortable type of camping mat. They are usually filled with down or or a synthetic equivalent so tend to be very warm too.

The downsides of these mats are their susceptibility to puncture and the effort required to inflate them. When punctured, they are useless: no padding and little insulation. In contrast, self-inflating mats still offer some warmth and comfort, even when punctured. Inflating an air mattress takes a bit more time and effort than a self-inflating pad (as the name implies).

FURTHER READING

Background

There is a bewildering array of sleeping pads and camping mats out there, and it can be hard to know where to start. I wrote this article to help explain the options and make the decision as easy as possible. I am also a massive nerd who likes camping mats and spreadsheets so secretly enjoyed compiling the big comparison tables above.

This article has been used by thousands and thousands of people since I published it in 2013 and I do my best to update it regularly. If you find it useful, please do tell a friend, click the Facebook ‘Like’ button at the bottom or share it on Twitter. Also, if you actually buy a camping mat then please do consider clicking one of the links before you do. It won’t cost you any extra but I will get a small percentage.

The T-Value

The T-Value is my own calculation: Tim’s Thermal Rating. It measures insulation per ounce.

It is calculated by dividing the R-Value by the weight in ounces, then multiplying by 100 to give a nicer number.

For comparative purposes, I’ve given the same ratio for full length and 3/4 length mats. Otherwise, you could just cut your mat in half and the T-value would double.

Related posts

About the author

Tim Moss has supported over 100 expeditions across all seven continents. He has climbed new mountains, crossed a desert on foot and recently cycled 13,000 miles around the world. He is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society London and a Guinness World Record Holder. He aims to encourage more people to live adventurously. Read more...

104 Comments

Hi Poul. Thermarest ProLite is the safest all-rounder. The NeoAir Xlite looks like a potential replacement but needs a bit more long-term testing. Otherwise, the Exped SynMats are far warmer and more comfortable than the competition and still really light.

In case you haven’t decided yet, I cycled around the world with the Exped Synmat 7 (non UL version) a couple of years ago, and absolutely love it. Really comfy (I sleep on my side, so have always had difficulties finding something comfortable), compact, lightweight enough and really robust. I also like the fact that you don’t breathe into it to inflate, which somehow in my mind meant it was less likely to have warm moist air causing mould growth! Especially good for sub-zero temperatures as well. The CPR-like method of inflation gets a bit tiresome though, to be fair…

We’ve actually been given two SynMat ULs by Exped so that’s really reassuring to hear. We’ve got two super thin GoodNight foam mats to go underneath and protect them too.

I’ve used the “CPR” inflation method before and agree it can be a little tiring. The new ones you either inflate by mouth (with the risk of moisture getting inside – not as bad as it would be for the down version) or with an inflation bag. As well as a normal one, there’s one that doubles as a pillow and another one is a waterproof compression sack.

Hey Niky, do you mean orthotic camping mats rather than sleeping bags?

I don’t know anything about them specifically but I would generally recommend the more solid options for anyone with back issues. That means foam roll mats and self-inflating mats but not inflatable air mattresses.

Let me tell you that I really enjoyed your article. And this is coming from a guy that knows his air mattresses. I spend a great deal of my free time writing on my blog about the camping and outdoor experiences I go through. I love you comparison chart I have actually worked on a similar one but mine involves mattresses from more companies.
Also foam roll mats are a great idea and I recently started using them o lot.
I am thinking of doing a round up and I would be glad if you would like to be featured.
regards,
James

Thanks James. I’m glad you liked the article. I look forward to seeing your comparison chart when it’s ready. If you’d like to reference my article in your post then that would of course be most welcome. All the best, Tim.

James

Hi Tim. I have created a definitive guide to sleeping pads. This will compliment perfectly your comparison tables above. And together we bring complete information to people who want to make a smart buy. I would definitely want to collaborate one of these days to create more of such resources.
here is the link: http://www.bestairmattressguide.com/air-mattress/definitive-guide-sleeping-pads-2/
and also you will find an expert roundup there. Top camping experts share their opinion on what is the best air mattress. check that out too.
cheers,
keep in touch,
James

Neil

Hi All,
Just wanted to throw my 2 pence in, I have had the same exped 7 downmat for 6 years now and has been to the himalaya 4 times, I have always just blown into the down and its still as warm now as when I first used it, sod using the CPR method

j a

Oh, those synmats be comfy, but watch out. 2 year warranty, and many many people having theirs delaminate makes it a no go for me.
Just unrolling my new xtherm, and from what everyone is saying, I am gonna looove it!
Lifetime warranty. Dig that!

This is one heck of a guide. I’ve used the Thermarest Pro-lite Mattress and its great cause its super light but not all that great if you are a side sleeper. Good thing I learned to become a back sleeper on the trip.

I’ve had the exped Synmat – nice, but after some weeks using a non-repairable hole next to the valve so I got only halfpriceback.
And it’s produced in the far east under working conditions you don’t know…

Now I’ve got thermarest, the thickestin your test with 30 years guaranty – and made in Ireland…

Hi Janny, I don’t know a lot about the Gelert self-inflating mats but from looking at their website, they are very cheap (£7.50+) and very heavy (1kg+). If you just want a cheap mat that you’ll transport in a car then these would be a bargain. If you want one to carry in a backpack then a few extra quid for an Alpkit mat would cut your weight in half and, probably, be slightly better build quality.

Jonny Mason

Hi, great article and website in general. Some more opinions to help people…

1)Neoair Xtherm is great – my friend has used it countless times on trips the last 2 years. They do rustle but not too bad and I don’t get bothered when he turns over..however, I wouldn’t own one myself as I’d be in control of the sound and that would irritate me…!

2) A lot of air mattresses can be too slippy and I have found myself waking up with my feet pressing into the end of the tent when sleeping on unlevel ground. I’m a side sleeper and very picky. I have found my warm winner though: Klymit Static V Insulated (709g, R-value 4.4). The diagonal baffles keep me in the same place and it is thick, easy to inflate, cheap(ish), easy to roll up, and tough fabric. Seems they are bringing out a lite version in USA and also do a much lighter, non-insulated version.

3) Klymit Inertia Ozone…Massively mixed feelings about this one – If it suits your body type its very comfy, super light, and has a pillow, all for about 350g. BUT NOT WARM! ignore their ‘loft pocket’ marketing…I got cold on a 6’C summer night with a Sub-zero sleeping bag (in a tent!). So, great for superlight warm treks if your profile perfectly fit into the holes, nothing more. (try one out first if you can!).

4) A good combo(touched upon many times in this article) under 500g would be a superlight foam matress with a superlight air matress on top…If you don’t mind the bulk its a double winner: more comfort, more insulation, less chance of puncture and if you do puncture the air matress all is not lost! I don’t do this currently simply because I try very hard to keep everything inside my pack to make me more agile walking through forests etc.

Thanks for the kind words and tips Jon. Sounds like I need to try some of these Klymit mats. You’re dead right about some of the mats being really slippy though. Glad you agree with the thin foam + inflatable mat combo!

emily

Hi, thanks for such useful information. My partner and i are planning on cycling through Africa for 5 months this year and I am finding it very hard to make a decision on the best sleeping mats for us! Any advise would be appreciated!

Safest best as an all-rounder are self-inflating pads. If you want cheap, go AlpKit. If you want really good, go Thermarest ProLite.

If you prefer guaranteed comfort and don’t mind mending a puncture or two, get an Exped HyperLite or a Thermarest NeoAir. (Or, again, try the AlpKit offering if budget’s important. I’ve not tested it myself).

Thanks Mark. I think that might be true for the inflatable mats without any filling inside. But most of these, if not all, have some kind of filling e.g. down or a synthetic equivalent. Based on their R-values and my own experiences, I’d say that inflatable mats are actually the warmest sleeping pads available.

* What would you say is the best value for money out there in self-inflating pads?

I do love Therm-a-Rest, I really do, but how to you think they compare to ALPS Mountaineering in terms of the “bang for the buck” they offer?

* What are your thoughts on comparing R-values across brands?

I know R-value is a standard, with a precise formula and all, but the way values that go into that formula are measured, company to company, there’s no standard for that. It always gives me pause when people ask me this exact question…I just wanted to hear your take on this.

Therm-a-rest vs ALPS Mountaineering:
Thermarest are excellent on both the stats and on their quality. Cheaper alternatives tend to fall down on one of those things i.e. they’re bigger/heavier or don’t last as long. I’ve not used any ALPS mats so can’t comment on the quality but their stats are decent. So, if their quality’s good then they are probably better bang for your buck. But if they’re more prone to failure like, say, an AlpKit mat, then it’s a decision on whether to invest in long life or risk buying cheap, buying twice.

I’ll add ALPS to my list of companies to contact about reviewing their products.

Comparing R-values across brands:
R values appeal to me as they’re a neat, mathematical way to compare one mat with another. Unfortunately, I’m not sure it’s a very good measure. I report the values in this review because they’re the only metric available for measuring the warmth of a camping mat but I would definitely say they should be taken with a pinch of salt between brands.

With sleeping bag ratings, the better known (and usually more expensive) brands tend to be more conservative with their temperature ratings whereas cheaper, budget alternatives are sometimes a little more gung ho (though there are notable exceptions, like AlpKit who tend to be very honest with their information). I’ve no evidence that mat manufacturers do the same but I think it’s unlikely a big brand like Thermarest, for example, would exaggerate their ratings when they have a long held reputation to keep.

Monty

Hey tim, i may be poking an old post here, but how comfy do you find the prolite plus for side sleeping? Or even the prolite? I noticed youre a side sleeper so your opinion is much appreciated. Im just skeptical of 2.5cm of cushion being comfy. Also, how comfy are torso length pads? Many thanks tim.

Hey Monty, I think the Prolite Plus is pretty comfy, even for sleeping on your side, especially if you inflate it fully. Of course, if comfort is the number one priority then an inflatable mattress like a NeoAir or Synmat will be much thicker.

As for torso length mats, as long as you put something underneath your feet like a rolled up waterproof jacket then they’re fine. I use three-quarter length pads more often than full length.

It would be nice to see widths reported in the comparison tables. I ended up buying a Sea to Summit ComfortPlus Insulated purely because it was the widest I could find. I find that mats like the Neo Air are already quite narrow on paper, and then once sleeping on it the edges collapse a little, making the usable width even less.

On a thick inflarable matress in particular I like to be able to lie on my back without my arms falling off the sides.

I’ve been using an $18 Walmart air mattress on my camping trips until it finally got worn out! I am looking to upgrade to a more compact inflatable mat and would like to test one out before my next camping trip. For taller people (5’11”) who toss and turn and prefer a wider side, what do you recommend? Your guide is thoroughly detailed but with so much choice, I’d like to narrow it down further.

Thanks for the question. For a taller person that wants a wider mat, I would recommend an Exped DownMat 7 or SynMat 7. They are long (I’m 5’11” and they work for me), wider than most alternatives and rectangular (rather than tapered) so give plenty of room for rolling around.

I have heard that Sea to Summit mats are slightly wider too but they’re still tapered (mummy shaped).

Stuffoholics

When I lastly went to Adirondack Park for Camping, I had a big problem with the mat. I couldn’t sleep the whole night. When I was searching for finding perfect mat for camping , I reached your article. That’s a great content. Thanks for sharing.